Find answers to common questions about arrhythmia symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and when to consult a cardiologist.
Arrhythmia is a problem with the heart’s electrical rhythm that can make the heart beat too fast, too slowly or irregularly. Some arrhythmias may not cause symptoms, while others can cause palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, fatigue or fainting.
Common symptoms include a racing, pounding or fluttering heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest discomfort and fainting. Some people may have no noticeable symptoms.
You should consider a cardiac evaluation if you frequently experience a racing, pounding or irregular heartbeat, particularly when it is accompanied by dizziness, breathlessness, chest discomfort or fainting.
Diagnosis usually starts with your symptoms and medical history, followed by tests such as an ECG. Depending on how often symptoms occur, your cardiologist may recommend Holter monitoring, an event recorder, an echocardiogram or other cardiac tests.
Yes. An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity and can help identify an abnormal heart rhythm. If the arrhythmia comes and goes, longer-term monitoring such as a Holter monitor may be recommended.
A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device that records your heart rhythm during normal daily activities, usually for a day or longer. It can help detect rhythm abnormalities that may not appear during a short ECG.
No. Some arrhythmias may not require immediate treatment and can be monitored. Treatment is generally considered when the rhythm problem causes significant symptoms or increases the risk of more serious heart problems.
Treatment depends on the type and cause of the arrhythmia. Depending on the individual condition, options may include medicines, cardioversion, catheter-based procedures such as ablation, or devices such as a pacemaker or ICD.
Some arrhythmias can be managed with medicines or other non-surgical approaches. However, certain rhythm disorders may benefit from procedures such as catheter ablation or device therapy. The appropriate approach depends on the specific arrhythmia and the patient's condition.
Catheter ablation is a procedure in which a catheter is guided to the heart to identify and treat abnormal electrical signals responsible for certain arrhythmias. It may be recommended for selected patients depending on the type of rhythm disorder.
Yes. Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a type of arrhythmia that causes an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. It is important to evaluate and manage AFib because it can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke and other complications.
If you are experiencing recurrent palpitations, an irregular heartbeat or other symptoms that may indicate a heart rhythm disorder, you can consult the cardiology team at Atrius Cardiac Care in Gurgaon for evaluation and an appropriate treatment plan.